Senior Housing Choices

As one thinks about how to maximize and enjoy his or her retirement years, it is important to plan for your future housing needs.Â Depending on your age, health and finances, choosing the right home or apartment can add years to your life and make life more enjoyable.Â Â Â

The kind of home or apartment that best suits your needs depends on how active a lifestyle you live.Â Do you want to maintain a single family home, townhouse or rent an apartment?Â If so, what size?Â When making your choice, think about how much upkeep will be required and what expenses you will incur.Â Â

Is a townhouse, community home, apartment or assisted care facility best for you?Â Is a warm weather environment better for you?Â Do you have family members nearby?Â Do you want to maintain your own independence?Â Â Are shopping, banking, hospitals and other services closeby?Â These are just some of the questions you need to ask yourself.

To begin the process, focus on your future needs and begin by downsizing and simplifying your life.Â As we become older, we soon realize material things takes on less importance and our needs change, too. As you plan for your future, think about what is most important to you, and what will satisfy your needs and desires. Â Plan well in advance and start the process early by getting rid of the things you no longer need so that your final move will be easier for you.Â